Disability and neurodiversity
On this page you will find learning resources to help you increase your knowledge and awareness of disability, long term conditions and neurodiversity in the workplace.
Neurodiversity Learning Resources
Welcome to this Neurodiversity learning page – a suite of resources collated to raise awareness of neurodiversity and help you:
- know more about neurodiversity and the impact of neurodivergent conditions on people at work
- identify actions you can take to contribute to a workplace that is inclusive and values neurodiversity
- find further learning resources and relevant guidance and support
Making workplace adjustments
Business Disability Forum
Through NHS Scotland membership, anyone with an nhs.scot email address can sign up to and access a range of resources to support disability inclusive workplaces.
Register for free on the Business Disability Forum website to access toolkits, condition specific briefings, staff networks and the advice line.
Follow the links below to access different toolkits available on the BDF website:
Neurodiversity - A note on language
We understand that there is no universally agreed upon terminology to use when discussing autism or neurodiversity, and we fully respect individual people’s choices on how they wish to talk about and describe themselves.
We have included the terms and definitions below that are in use at this current time. As understanding continues to evolve, these are likely to change, and we will continue to adapt our language.
Definitions
- ‘Neuro’ relates to the brain, nerves and nervous system which spans our whole body.
- ‘Neurocognitive functions’ are selective aspects of brain functions - the ability to learn and use language, the ability to regulate attention, emotions, impulses (including movements and spontaneous utterances), social behaviours, and process sensory stimuli.
- ‘Diversity’ means difference or variety.
- ‘Neurodiversity’ acknowledges that individual differences exist as a natural and normal consequence of variation in any large population.
- 'Neurotypical' describes individuals where a selective neurocognitive function falls within the range typical for most people in the population.
- 'Neurodivergent' describes individuals where a selective neurocognitive function falls out with the typical range.
- Neurodivergent individuals ask to be understood with particular respect to their strengths alongside support if required.
Under the Equality Act 2010 a person has a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on that person’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. This may include neurodivergent conditions depending on the barriers experienced.
